Electricity Options

Provider of Last Resort (POLR)

The Commission has designated Providers of Last Resort (POLR) as a back-up electric service provider in each area of Texas open to competition. POLR service is relatively high-priced, due to the costs associated with planning and the risk of serving an uncertain number of customers with uncertain electricity loads. POLR service is a safety net for customers whose chosen REP is unable to continue service. This service is intended to be temporary and used only under rare circumstances when a REP is unable to provide service, or when a customer requests POLR service.

The Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC) designates certificated REPs to provide POLR service for each customer class in each electric utility service area that is open to competition.